‘It truly is an experience of a lifetime’: Upper Sixth Leavers reflect on School life
As they prepare for ‘Life After Tonbridge’, some of our 2022 Leavers reveal their personal highlights over the past five years and look ahead to the world of university and beyond.
Jonas Freeman (pictured above)
Boarder, Manor House, and Head of School 2021-22
“The supportive and caring community that is nurtured at Tonbridge is second to none”
A-levels:
English, Maths, Chemistry, Mandarin, French, Spanish.
Which subject(s) have you enjoyed most, and why?
I have cherished my time studying languages. The School has consistently provided me with the teaching and support to not only continue with my pre-existing languages, but also to pursue new ones – Mandarin, German, Portuguese – at a high level.
What university are you heading to and why is this your choice?
Harvard University, to read Liberal Arts. Harvard will allow me to continue to pursue my numerous and wide-ranging interests, while I continue to decide what I would ultimately like to study (or “major in”).
What are your career aspirations?
I am sure that my career will take many different turns as I discover my interest and passions over time. However, I have always seen myself working in public service in the long term.
What would you like to be doing five years from now?
I think that I would like to attend law school in America, or alternatively pursue a Master’s degree in the UK. However, I am still open to different options. If Tonbridge has taught me anything, it is that I should always remain open to deviations from any five-year plan!
What has your time at Tonbridge been like? Can you say what the best aspects have been?
Without a doubt, the best aspect of Tonbridge is the community. From my Matron and Housemaster to my teachers and peers, the supportive and caring community that is nurtured at Tonbridge is second to none.
Is there one particular highlight or one favourite moment?
Highlights have included trips to China, Finland and New Zealand. However, I think that a more telling story of the Tonbridge experience is the time that I went sailing for the first time. I despised the experience, perhaps because of the cold or perhaps because of the intensity of the sport and my propensity for capsizing. And yet I find myself still talking about it four and a half years later. Because that is what Tonbridge is all about: trying something new and getting out of one’s comfort zone, even if it means you learn that sailing isn’t for you!
Is there one teacher you would like to give a special mention to?
Mr Wu (Mandarin) has taught me to appreciate ancient Chinese culture and language, how to learn a completely different language from scratch, and how to spot the nuances of seemingly simple political and social issues. It has been a true pleasure, honour and privilege to have him as a teacher.
Overall, what has Tonbridge taught you, do you think?
Tonbridge has rounded me as a person. I never had to choose between academics and sport. Or between my passion for debating and my interest in romance languages. And because I was never told to compromise my interests or to sacrifice my passions, I have learnt to never limit myself by other people’s expectations.
I know that I will be well prepared for future challenges that come my way. I’ve gained a valuable sense of perspective and a very Tonbridgian quiet self-confidence.
What advice would you give to a boy starting in the Novi this year?
It’s an extremely exciting time right now – with the refurbishments of several Houses, a new state-of-the-art Science Centre, an expansion of the Foundation Awards programme – and I would encourage everyone to be a part of it. Explore your academic interests. Try a sport that you had never previously heard of. Join a club or society you know nothing about. Put yourself out there and make new friends. It truly is an experience of a lifetime, and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.
Jasper Harrison (pictured above)
Day boy, Smythe House
“I’m sure the experiences I have had will stay with me forever”
A-levels:
Economics, History, Maths.
Which subject(s) have you enjoyed most, and why?
Economics and History. Both subjects have offered many layers of complexity and understanding. They are also two disciplines in which there is a level of subjectivity, and I think that gives a lot more freedom to have your own opinions.
What university are you heading to and why is this your choice?
I have an offer for Cambridge: I loved the idea of going to an institution with such an illustrious history. It is also the only place which offers my course, Land Economy, which I am really keen to study
What are your career aspirations?
I’m undecided currently but the Civil Service really appeals to me. I feel it is a career which offers meaning to the work which you do, as well as bringing a variety of opportunities and experiences.
What would you like to be doing five years from now?
I’d like to be working and living in London, but I have no firm plans as of now. Working abroad for a while in somewhere like Australia also seems desirable.
What has your time at Tonbridge been like? Can you say what the best aspects have been?
The dynamic between staff and boys is something which has been consistently positive throughout my time here, as there is a mutual respect. By and large, I feel the right balance is struck between having fun and getting through what needs to be done.
Is there one particular highlight or one favourite moment?
The Smythe House play was hilarious to make and we all had a blast putting it on. Also captaining the General Knowledge team to the final of the National Schools’ Challenge competition was very special.
Is there one teacher you would like to give a special mention to?
Mr Henshall has been a positive force and influence. He was my Housemaster during my first three years at Tonbridge: he helped me settle in and set me on the path for A-levels. I was also fortunate enough to have him as a Geography teacher for all three of my GCSE years and I don’t think we ever had a dull lesson.
Overall, what has Tonbridge taught you, do you think?
The more you put in, the more you get out. Whether it be academics, sport or social activities, you’ll derive a lot more from your time if you put yourself forward.
Anything else you’d like to add …?
I recognise how incredibly lucky I am to have had the opportunities offered to me by Tonbridge. I’m sure the experiences I have had will stay with me forever.
Zac Nwogwugwu (pictured above)
Boarder, Hill Side
“Tonbridge has taught me to set goals and stay disciplined on the road to achieving them”
A-levels:
Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry.
Which subject(s) have you enjoyed most, and why?
Probably Further Maths because of how it challenges me to improve, and there is great satisfaction in getting full marks in a page-long solution!
What university are you heading to and why is this your choice?
MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology). It was my top choice because of how deeply the study of STEM is ingrained within its philosophy, and the opportunities I will have to explore this further. Also the acceptance letter had virtual confetti: I think it would be a crime to go elsewhere.
At MIT students don’t have to declare an overall major until sophomore year, but I’m currently considering 8-Flex (Physics) or 18C (Maths with Computer Science), or a mix of both.
What are your career aspirations?
I want people to know my name. At least that way, I don’t have to tell them how to pronounce it an inordinate number of times!
What would you like to be doing five years from now?
Ideally I will be in my first job in the US, but it would be pretty cool if I could contribute something tangible to society. However, Wall Street could tempt me …
What has your time at Tonbridge been like/ Can you say what the best aspects have been?
The best aspects have probably been people making me laugh, but I’ve found that’s pretty easy to do!
Is there one particular highlight, or one favourite moment?
Running the 100m in under 11 seconds for the first time in my Second Year.
Is there one teacher you would like to give a special mention to?
Mr Roslan (Chemistry) was one of my teachers for four of my five years. He taught me to have some confidence in my ability.
Overall, what has Tonbridge taught you, do you think?
Tonbridge has taught me how to set goals and stay disciplined on the road to achieving them.
What advice would you give to a boy starting in the Novi this year?
There are only a few things that are truly impossible, and so if you set your mind to something, there is a very good chance you can achieve it.
Eddie Adams (pictured above)
Day boy, Oakeshott House, and Deputy Head of School 2021-22
“It’s those moments when the whole School comes together that have been the most special”
A-levels:
History, English, Religious Studies, Economics.
Which subject(s) have you enjoyed most, and why?
The obvious answer is History. The modules taken at Tonbridge are fantastic – the opportunity to independently research a key area of historiographical debate for the coursework component is particularly enriching.
I have gained the most enjoyment from the complementary nature of my A-levels: each subject has enhanced my understanding of another. I feel as though I have spent the last two years embracing ‘the humanities’ rather than studying four distinct disciplines. This has been incredibly rewarding.
What university are you heading to and why is this your choice?
Trinity College, University of Cambridge, to read History. The course looks really exciting due to its overlap with other faculties such as Divinity, Classics and Politics. I was particularly taken by the prestige of the university’s History of Political Thought Department, and its emphasis on global history rather than history with an exclusively ‘Eurocentric’ focus.
What are your career aspirations?
Your guess is as good as mine … I haven’t really thought that far ahead. Something that’s fun and important to me. So definitely not banking …
What would you like to be doing five years from now?
Fingers-crossed, by then I will have converted a van and be exploring the Norwegian coastline. I’d love to see the Northern Lights.
What has your time at Tonbridge been like? Can you say what the best aspects have been?
A blast! Every day over the past five years has been filled with experiences that are too easy to take for granted. It’s those moments when the whole School comes together that have been the most special, such as singing the Libera me on the touchline of The Fifty, and chorusing ‘reaching out’ during the staff band’s performance of Sweet Caroline in the theatre.
I suppose the common theme between all of these aspects of School life is music. Music in all its forms will provide my fondest memories of Tonbridge.
Is there one particular highlight or one favourite moment?
Winning the House Music Competition in 2020 with Oakeshott. House Music has meant so much – I can’t think of another event that unites the School in quite the same way. I will be watching the annual livestream for many years to come.
Is there one teacher you would like to give a special mention to?
Mr Oliver, due to his unrivalled passion for History.
Overall, what has Tonbridge taught you, do you think?
Tonbridge has taught me too much to attempt to put into words here! I suppose the most important thing that I’ve learnt is never to be afraid to ask for a little help here and there. As much as we like to deny it, we are all in need of it from time to time.
What advice would you give to a boy starting in the Novi this year?
Opportunities, opportunities, opportunities – there is a reason why everyone always bangs on about them. They are yours for the taking.
Thurso Willett (pictured above)
Boarder, School House
“I have felt brilliantly supported by people who truly care about and believe in me”
A-levels:
Maths, English, Geography, Spanish.
Which subject(s) have you enjoyed most, and why?
Geography is my favourite but I have enjoyed all my A-levels.
What university are you heading to – and why is this your choice?
I hope to go to London School of Economics (LSE) to read Geography, because it will offer me the best opportunity to contribute to useful research and academic discourse in my field of interest.
What are your career aspirations?
I would love to work in the Civil Service, ideally in foreign affairs.
What would you like to be doing five years from now?
I imagine I will still be at university, since I envisage continuing my subject beyond undergraduate level.
What has your time at Tonbridge been like? Can you say what the best aspects have been?
I have thoroughly enjoyed Tonbridge. The best aspect has been the diversity of opportunity and constant support in finding and pursuing activities or interests. In all of my scholarly and extracurricular endeavours I have felt brilliantly supported by people who truly care about and believe in me.
Is there one particular highlight or one favourite moment?
One highlight was winning the 1500m at sports day.
Is there one teacher you would like to give a special mention to?
I couldn’t single out just one!
Overall, what has Tonbridge taught you, do you think?
Tonbridge has taught me to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way and to not be afraid to put myself out there.
What advice would you give to a boy starting in the Novi this year?
Take advantage of the breadth of opportunities available at the School and don’t worry if you don’t initially feel like you have a niche area of expertise.
Yury Balabin (pictured above)
Day boy, Cowdrey House
“I have been able to do rocketry, climbing and shooting, in addition to academic life”
A-levels:
Physics, Maths, Further Maths, Art.
Which subject(s) have you enjoyed most, and why?
Two subjects stand out most. The feeling of finding an elegant and unorthodox way to solve a complicated mathematical problem is unparalleled, and this is key to my enjoyment of Maths and related co-curricular challenges. To contrast, I have loved the creative freedom which is available through Art.
What university are you heading to – and why is this your choice?
University College London, to read Architecture. UCL offers an incredible course which promises to be both academically and creatively challenging. Being in the heart of London is, in itself, a great benefit, with amazing access to the cultural capital.
What are your career aspirations?
I see myself investing the time needed to become a registered architect, as I believe that this would be a meaningful career which I can enjoy.
What would you like to be doing five years from now?
I imagine that in five years I will be finishing my Master’s in Architecture, and hopefully preparing to work at an impactful architecture firm while I finish my certification.
What has your time at Tonbridge been like? Can you say what the best aspects have been?
Nothing short of phenomenal! Best of all are the opportunities available to students, alongside top facilities and superb teachers. It is amazing that I have been able to do rocketry, climbing and shooting, in addition to academic life.
Is there one particular highlight or one favourite moment?
A personal highlight for me was this year’s International Physics Brawl (an online competition involving schools from across the world). After almost three hours of problem-solving, our team answered a question in the final seconds which allowed us to claim first place in the UK. It was a great experience which I’ll always remember fondly.
Is there one teacher you would like to give a special mention to?
I would like to thank Mr Powell; between engaging discussions in Physics lessons, running the Rocketry Club and the RAF section in the CCF, he has definitely enriched my time at Tonbridge!
Overall, what has Tonbridge taught you, do you think?
Tonbridge has taught me how to think and perceive creatively, allowing me to engage with new issues and concepts in a constructive manner.
What advice would you give to a boy starting in the Novi this year?
In my opinion, the Novi is all about trying different things, and working out what you like. Hence my best advice would be to make the most of the opportunities that Tonbridge offers you, and try as many things as you can.
James Hii (pictured above)
Boarder, Hill Side
“Teachers have the knowledge and passion, and genuinely want you to succeed”
A-levels:
Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry.
Which subject(s) have you enjoyed most, and why?
Maths and Further Maths. My teachers have made lessons especially enjoyable, and their passion and enthusiasm are contagious, making lessons engaging and something to look forward to.
What university are you heading to – and why is this your choice?
Imperial College London (to read Mathematics). It has a great reputation and seems like somewhere where I would enjoy myself.
What are your career aspirations?
To work somewhere where I’d enjoy myself.
What would you like to be doing five years from now?
Hopefully graduating from university.
What has your time at Tonbridge been like? Can you say what the best aspects have been?
Just good times. Boarding has undeniably been one of the best aspects of Tonbridge. Being around friends 24/7 has led to some unforgettable memories and solid friendships, and just feels like an experience to treasure. Additionally, teachers are the foundation of Tonbridge: they have the knowledge and passion, and genuinely want you to succeed, whether it be inside or outside the classroom.
Is there one particular highlight or one favourite moment?
As a Novi, playing the maracas in House Music was incredibly fun and a special moment. An undefeated season in Second Year rugby was another big highlight for me.
Is there one teacher you would like to give a special mention to?
Mr Evans. He taught me for three years of GSCE English and went above and beyond as a teacher, and as a wonderful person, unexpectedly making English one of my favourite subjects. A special mention to Dr Wang too (Maths), definitely one of the most inspiring teachers in the School.
Overall, what has Tonbridge taught you, do you think?
Probably that life isn’t a competition, and we can be satisfied trying our best. I like to think I’ve come out of Tonbridge more well-rounded and content as a result.
What advice would you give to a boy starting in the Novi this year?
Step outside of your comfort zone and try new things. There is a good reason that others like it, that you won’t see until you try. The facilities and opportunities Tonbridge have to offer are amazing, but it’s up to you to put yourself out there.
Giordano Avondo (pictured above)
Boarder, School House
“Just spending time in the House with everyone has created memorable highlights”
A-levels:
Maths, Further Maths, Physics, French.
Which subject(s) have you enjoyed most, and why?
I have particularly enjoyed studying Further Maths, as it has taught me to expand my approach to problem-solving across many different topics. In addition, I have come to understand how useful mathematics can be in other scientific areas such as fluid dynamics and aerodynamics.
What university are you heading to – and why is this your choice?
Bristol University, to read Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. The combination of a challenging course and dynamic environment made Bristol my first choice.
What are your career aspirations?
My career destination is not yet perfectly clear! But I’m confident that the science-based skills I will acquire from my engineering studies are sufficiently broad to allow me to be selective and have options.
What would you like to be doing five years from now?
I strongly believe our focus should be in providing more efficient and sustainable ways of producing energy. Stable and secure fission reactions seem to me the next logical step, one that I would like to be a part of.
What has your time at Tonbridge been like? Can you say what the best aspects have been?
Tonbridge has provided me with the opportunity to try many different things across various disciplines: academic, sport, music and others. Ultimately, the pursuit of excellence, and the keen competition that has come with it, has given me the opportunity to excel both academically and as an individual.
Is there one particular highlight or one favourite moment?
Just spending time in the House with everyone has created memorable highlights. If I were to choose a special moment, it might be playing the Last Post in Chapel to commemorate The Fallen.
Is there one teacher you would like to give a special mention to?
Mr Lord’s extensive knowledge (Maths) made it a pleasure to be taught by him.
Overall, what has Tonbridge taught you, do you think?
That there might always be someone better than you in whatever field you are undertaking. The best thing to do is learn from them!
What advice would you give to a boy starting in the Novi this year?
My advice would be to attempt as many things as possible, not to be afraid of failure and to get to know as many people as possible. These are friends you are most likely to stay in touch with when you leave Tonbridge.
Anything else you’d like to add …?
Despite it being a cliché, life at Tonbridge really is Carpe Diem: Seize The Day!
